A fresh political standoff has emerged over the retirement benefits of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, with his allies accusing the State of attempting to strip him of privileges guaranteed under law.
Leaders allied to the Jubilee Party have come out strongly in his defence, claiming that recent efforts to review or block his benefits are politically motivated.
The dispute follows renewed criticism by Kenyatta of President William Ruto’s administration, a move that has reportedly irritated figures within the ruling coalition.
At the centre of the row is a proposal by Samson Cherargei, who has pushed for a reassessment of Kenyatta’s retirement package.
The senator argues that former presidents who remain active in politics should not continue to enjoy full State-funded benefits.
The retirement package for Kenya’s fourth president remains one of the most comprehensive in the region.
It includes an annual budget of about Sh362 million to run his office, alongside a lump sum pension estimated at Sh34.7 million for his two terms in office.
In addition, Kenyatta receives a monthly pension of approximately Sh1.1 million, equivalent to 80 per cent of a sitting president’s salary.
The benefits extend to an annual gratuity of about Sh72 million, as well as allowances covering housing, entertainment, and transport.
The State also provides logistical support, including a team of 34 staff members such as personal assistants, secretaries, and security personnel.
His transport package features four vehicles, including two limousines replaced every four years, with specified engine capacity limits.
Further benefits include full medical cover both locally and abroad, diplomatic passports, and funding for up to four international trips annually.
However, Jubilee leaders argue that these benefits are constitutionally anchored and should not be subject to political considerations.
They maintain that attempts to revise them risk setting a dangerous precedent for future transitions of power.
The renewed dispute signals deepening divisions between rival political camps, raising questions about the treatment of former leaders and the boundaries between retirement and active political engagement in Kenya.